Warming hearts this winter

The Waratah Foundation, a South African non-profit committed to food security and community outreach, is joining forces with Namibia’s Havana Charity Work Foundation (HCWF) for their annual Winter Drive, officially launching on 12 August.As temperatures remain low, the Waratah Foundation has collected winter essentials, including warm clothes, blankets, food, and hygiene products, with the support of churches, businesses, and generous individuals. These items will soon make their way to families and children living in Namibia’s informal settlements.This winter drive marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between the two foundations, with exciting plans already underway for youth mentorship programmes, skills development workshops, cross-border volunteer exchanges, early childhood education support, community garden projects, and small business development.“This is not a once-off campaign. We are working on long-term, sustainable solutions,” said Penomwene Nekwaya, founder of the HCWF.HCWF and Waratah have been working together throughout July to support communities in Windhoek’s informal settlements.More than donationsBeyond providing warm essentials, both organisations are deeply committed to emotional and social support for the children and families they serve.Since its founding in 2021, HCWF has hosted a full-day community programme every Saturday, offering hot meals to between 300 and 400 children, engaging them in educational games, and providing emotional care and practical activities.The foundation also delivers monthly food parcels to five households, soon to be six, and supports six young people with shelter, mentorship, and empowerment. In the past, HCWF has also provided care for mothers and babies during crisis periods.During exam seasons, HCWF offers a quiet and safe space for three to four young girls, helping them focus on their studies and get the rest they need.“Our garden also plays a big role in our sustainability. When donations run low, we rely on it for fresh vegetables,” Nekwaya shared. “It’s more than just food; it’s a space where teamwork and self-reliance take root.“Last weekend, volunteers and members of New Life Church came together to tend the garden. We laughed, planted, and prepared the soil—because this garden is a symbol of hope and community spirit.”Supported by many, fuelled by purposeThe foundation operates without a fixed income or formal sponsorships, relying entirely on donations and community goodwill.Nekwaya, who runs HCWF with a dedicated volunteer team, describes the work as “an extension of her purpose and faith.”The foundation is supported by 135 volunteers from Namibia, South Africa, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany, some working on-site and others helping remotely.Donors include Simonis Storm Securities (N$10 000), Trentyre (N$5 000), and many others who contribute food, clothes, and time. Additional supporters include Umbrella Initiatives, Sky Restaurant, New Life Church, Tria Motors, families donating pre-loved clothing, students from UNAM and NUST, Mercure Hotel, Cirrostratus Investment, CEPM Consulting Engineering, Chigama Architects, Methealth Administrators Namibia (Psemas Claims), and several anonymous donors.How you can helpThe Havana Charity Work Foundation and the Waratah Foundation are calling on local businesses, individuals, and the media to help make a difference, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.To get involved or make a contribution, follow them on Instagram: @havanacharity and @waratahfoundation

Warming hearts this winter

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Republikein 2026-03-20

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Warming hearts this winter

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